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Unlocking Well-being: 5-HTP's Remarkable Health Benefits

| Modified on Jan 10, 2024
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5 HTP Benefits.

5-Hydroxytryptophan, commonly known as 5-HTP, is a natural compound that has garnered significant attention for its potential health benefits. 5-HTP plays a crucial role in various bodily functions as a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. This article delves into the diverse health benefits of 5-HTP, exploring its impact on mood, sleep, anxiety, weight management, and migraines.

Boosting Mood and Alleviating Depression

One of the most notable benefits of 5-HTP is its ability to enhance mood. Since it's a precursor to serotonin, often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, 5-HTP supplementation can aid in alleviating symptoms of depression. Studies have shown that 5-HTP can increase serotonin levels in the brain, which may lead to improved mood and a reduction in depressive symptoms.

Promoting Quality Sleep

5-HTP's role in producing serotonin also influences sleep quality, as serotonin can be converted into the hormone melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Supplementing with 5-HTP has been found to improve the quality of sleep, particularly in those who struggle with insomnia. By increasing melatonin production, 5-HTP can help regulate sleep patterns, leading to more restful and rejuvenating sleep.

Reducing Anxiety and Stress

The stress-reducing properties of 5-HTP are linked to its ability to elevate serotonin levels. Anxiety and stress are often associated with low serotonin levels, and by enhancing these levels, 5-HTP can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. It's a natural alternative for those seeking relief from anxiety and stress, without the side effects often associated with pharmaceutical drugs.

Aiding in Weight Management

5-HTP may also play a role in weight management. It has been suggested that 5-HTP can help regulate appetite, leading to reduced food intake and potential weight loss. This is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to manage their weight naturally. By increasing feelings of fullness, 5-HTP can help reduce overeating and aid in weight loss efforts.

Managing Migraines and Headaches

Emerging research indicates that 5-HTP may effectively manage migraines and tension-type headaches. The role of serotonin in pain regulation suggests that 5-HTP, by boosting serotonin levels, could reduce the frequency and severity of migraines and headaches.

5-HTP's Role in Managing Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive disturbances, can significantly impact quality of life. Emerging research suggests that 5-HTP may offer relief for those suffering from fibromyalgia by influencing serotonin levels, which are often disrupted in fibromyalgia patients.

Easing Fibromyalgia Symptoms

The link between low serotonin levels and fibromyalgia symptoms, such as pain and sleep disturbances, positions 5-HTP as a potential therapeutic agent. By increasing serotonin production, 5-HTP can help alleviate some of the key symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. Patients may experience reduced pain, improved sleep quality, and a decrease in the severity of fatigue.

Enhancing Mood and Cognitive Function

Mood disorders like depression and anxiety often accompany fibromyalgia. Since 5-HTP can boost mood through increased serotonin levels, it may also help improve the emotional well-being of fibromyalgia patients. Additionally, the cognitive fog commonly experienced by those with fibromyalgia may be mitigated through the mood-enhancing and sleep-improving effects of 5-HTP.

Conclusion

5-HTP presents a natural, holistic approach to improving various aspects of health. From enhancing mood and sleep to managing weight and reducing the occurrence of migraines, the benefits of 5-HTP are wide-ranging. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals on other medications or those with existing health conditions. Embracing the health benefits of 5-HTP can be a step towards a more balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Continue reading to learn how Earth Clinic readers have used 5-HTP and please let us know if the supplement helped you!

Related Links:

Dealing with Depression Naturally
Effective Natural Remedies for Anxiety
Exploring Natural Remedies for Addiction Treatment

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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5-HTP + Rhodiola

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Posted by S. B. (Louisville, KY) on 01/18/2008
 ★★★★★

Just wanted to echo the positive experiences reported here. After a bit of internet research, I kind of guessed at a regimen that might work for me, which is one 250mg rhodiola capsule before breakfast, one before lunch, and then 50mg 5-HTP before bed. In fact I found this site because I Googled "5-HTP" and "rhodiola" to see if there was any danger in taking them both, but I see several of you have also come up with a similar plan. Very assuring, and I have to say I felt a bit of triumph for having arrived at the same conclusion that others have made of my own accord.

Anyway, I've been taking it for a short while and I am still flabbergasted at how effective it is. I really just can't get over it. I could feel the effects after the very first dose of rhodiola. Not only did it improve my mood, it made me feel, well, happy! And it improved my personality. Low seratonin levels were impacting my life in many negative ways but now I am a new person.

Also it seems to have eliminated my morning headaches and neck stiffness, but I can't say whether that is attributed to the rhodiola or the 5-HTP. From what I've read it may likely be the 5-HTP.

However as others have stated, I would take caution in the dosage of rhodiola. I have found that if I take the afternoon dose too close to the morning dose, I do become a bit jittery and restless. Still happy--not nervous--but jittery and restless nonetheless.

Rhodiola is obviously powerful stuff and I'm sure it's not for everyone, but if you are the type of person that it can benefit, then like the others here that have reported positive experiences, I think you'll be astounded as to how effective it can be.

5-HTP and Zoloft

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Posted by Jamie (Breese, Il) on 03/13/2010

I have battled with depression since I was a freshman in highschool, im 29 now. I take 150mg of Zoloft everyday. If I wanted to try this 5-HTP would I also have to stop taking the Zoloft or could I take both. The Zoloft does not help with my times of excessive worrying, mood swings, or the feeling of being tired all the time. Any suggestion??

Replied by Bee
(Anon, Anon)
03/15/2010

If you do take 5-HTP and Zoloft, there is a chance that your serotonin levels will rise too high. Also, realize that there is a chance of withdrawal as you wean yourself off of Zoloft. I would consult with a medical professional to help you wean off the Zoloft gradually, to ease any withdrawal. I used 5-htp to help wean off Paxil(another SSRI)- I'm at a half dose now, but not trying to reduce it any right now. I had really severe withdrawal so it may be better to give your system a break before starting the 5-htp. At least in my experience weaning off is really hard and it's important to take care of yourself and have the support of someone to help you get through it.

Replied by Kimbies
(Omaha, Nebraska)
03/26/2010
★★★★★

regarding the question of taking 5HTP with Zoloft. As long as you have a window of over 8-10 hours between taking the Zoloft and 5HTP it should not be a problem. Many people successfully are on both just not at the same time in the day as to avoid Seratonin overload.

Replied by Shelby
(Wilmington, Ca)
12/22/2011

Jaime! You should look into meditation and yoga to help with your depression. Sending you lots of love and light :)

5-HTP for Children

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Posted by Charlotte (Richboro, PA)
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Editor's Choice

My 6 year old grandson was diagnosed with "Select Mutism" 2 years ago and rather than put him on "Prozac", my daughter did some research and learned about 5HTP and chose to try it first.

He started on 50mg every night. His psychologist saw the same results with the 5HTP as children on prescribed drugs.

It's been a miracle for him. I have since then also taken it since our family seems to have anxiety problems and ADD runs in the family and it has helped very much with these problems.

I usually take 100mg to 200mg daily depending on my stress levels at the time. We are so grateful our little grandson did not have to take Prozac or a similar drug. I would highly recommend it as a first choice to try at least.

5-HTP for Teenagers

Posted by Dana (Sheridan, Wyoming) on 12/19/2013

Would 5-HTP be advisable for my 16 year old son? He seems to be tired a lot, gets frequent headaches, looks to have low energy (except when he is with his friends and has bouts of anxiety. He has a huge homework load from AP classes but handles his homework well. I worry about his headaches and anxiety. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.

Replied by Mike 62
(Denver, Colorado)
12/19/2013

Dana: I had what your son has when I was his age, only I was a lot worse. 40 years later I learned that cooked regular food does not have any enzymes, humic acids that activate nutrients, xeronines that activate proteins, sulfur, or trace minerals. Do your son a big favor and feed him raw organic, grassfed, and superfood concentrates, and make home made water kefir. You can watch raw food videos for some great ideas.

Replied by Mama To Many
(Tennessee, Usa)
12/20/2013

Hi Dana,

It is worrisome to see a teen work hard and be tired and have headaches! I have seen this too with my sons.

One thing is that teens do need more sleep for a time during the mid-teen years. I have worried when it appears my teens need more sleep than their younger siblings. Teens often do not get adequate sleep and often get irregular sleep. But between school and social lives etc, it can be hard to get them to sleep enough. Does he have trouble sleeping? Sleepytime tea before bed actually helps a lot for many, if so. I don't know that I would start with 5-HTP, I don't know much about it. But others may have another thought on this.

I agree with Mike that getting him some concentration nutrition is important. Teens are growing and need extra nutrition. Unfortunately, they are often not getting a very good diet, especially if they are consuming fast food, energy drinks, caffeine, etc. In fact, MSG (in fast food or processed food), processed sugar, and energy drinks can all cause headaches and anxiety.

Most of us are iodine deficient. A drop of Lugol's iodine daily, or a kelp tablet (not as much iodine, but still helpful to some.) might be helpful. Low iodine affects energy poorly. Also, daily vitamin C and D and B complex would be good. I did this for my son who is 17 and it did make a noticeable difference.

Sometimes a few simple changes will help. Sometimes it might be more complex. An underlying virus could cause be involved and then I would consider Dave's colloidal silver plan.

Keep us posted on what you try and how it is going. If the first things you try don't work, EC posters will likely have some more ideas for you!

~Mama to Many~

5-HTP Side Effects

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Posted by Ann (Louisville, KY) on 09/10/2021

WARNING!

I have been taking 5-HTP with Vitamin B6 (50mg) for the past month and have had serious side effects. I would take one dose in the morning with breakfast and one in the evening when I first started, but invariably would miss the second dose as I would forget to take it with my dinner. I then noticed I was having more diarrhea than normal and researched 5-HTP to find that that was a side effect. So I cut back to only taking 50mg every other day. During the early morning hours of Thursday, September 9th, I had a violent tremor outbreak that was happening over my whole body. It lasted between 45 minutes to an hour and only seemed to release when I would cough hard or yell and the reprieve only lasted a minute or so. I took off work on September 9th because I was wasted after this occurrence and slept the whole day. After returning to work today (Friday, September 10th), I again researched 5-HTP to see if there was any link and there was. Quote from draxe.com "There are some potential side effects to be aware of: indigestion and stomach problems; heartburn; nausea; vomiting; fatigue and drowsiness; sexual dysfunction; and muscular spasms and dysfunction." According to other research, these muscular spasms only happen to a select few (I'm one of the lucky ones).

I only researched 5-HTP, because I knew of no other reason why I would be having this type of tremor episode. I am on blood pressure medication and have been for years without having this type of episode before. So I am truly thinking that it has something to do with the 5-HTP. The weird thing is, I was only taking 50mg doses and just recently those were only taken every other day, so I don't think there was that much of an increase of serotonin in my system. Perhaps it's because the Vitamin B6 caused the 5-HTP to be more effective more quickly. I don't really know. I've given my doctor my observations and wait to see what she says. Just wanted to give everyone a heads up on here as I use earthclinic.com any time I am researching for natural supplements.

5-HTP Side Effects
Posted by Charlotte (Honolulu, Hi) on 02/02/2013

WARNING!

hey everyone who wants to try 5-HTP you should research it first... It's the cause of Eosinophilia Myalgia Syndrome (EMS). I thought I was going to try it until I read about this. The side effects among other things are extreme muscle pain, tremors, and it's a life-long condition. It has also killed people.

5-HTP Side Effects
Posted by Guata (Provo, Ut) on 07/27/2012

BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS

I tried 5-HTP, 50 mg. I slept great but woke up with burst blood vessels in my left eye. I tried it a few nights later and the same thing happened: I slept great again but had the burst blood vessels again. I don't dare use it anymore.

5-HTP Side Effects
Posted by Susan (Hamilton, Ontario, Canada) on 02/13/2010

After hearing the great things about 5-HTP, I gave it a whirl for my anxiety and sleeplessness. I reacted very paradoxically to this supplement, as within two hours I was alert and energetic to the point of hyperactivity, also my mood became very agitated and I was extremely cranky with those that I love. The only good thing was that I got through a mountain of housework in a half day because I just could not stop. The effects carried on into the night and I only was able to sleep for an hour at most. Wanting to give this a really good trial, I carried on for about a week but the effects were the same, I hated the way I was feeling, and I finally gave the tablets away.

Replied by Sheryn
(Milwaukee, Wi)
04/17/2010

Susan and others...I noticed while researching several options to treat low-level depression, that many caution against using if your depression has a bipolar (manic) component. My guess is that increasing serotonin in that instance leads to the manic activity and irritability (depressed mood manic energy me = one serious crabby-butt, lesson learned with an ill-fated combo of stimulants for attention deficit).

The solution for you may lie in working with other parts of your brain chemistry. Maybe see what folks are recommending for bipolar/cyclothymia.

5-HTP Side Effects
Posted by jill (Rochester, UK) on 12/14/2007

I would be interested to know if anyone else has had horrible side effects from taking 5-HTP I get stomach cramps terrible palpitations dizzyness and still feel awful the next day. Am I the only one, everyone I read about seems to think it's the best thing since sliced bread. Help!!

Replied by Violet
(Atlanta, Georgia)
03/29/2008

For Jill--yes 50 mg of 5htp did make me feel anxious, flushed, and a little weird. I now take just 25 mg a day and that makes me sleep much better...the calming effect still feels a little odd to me, but I think this supplement has raised my mood, which was extremely depressed. I would suggest lowering your dose. A lot of info. on the web suggests taking very high dosages a day and I think this may be based on clinical trials, which use a lot of a drug to see the effects quickly. This is not necessarily advisable for everyday folks.

Replied by Rolf
(Los Angeles, Ca, Usa)
07/25/2012

Interestingly enough, and rather contrary to the popular marketing perspective, much of the research on tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptophan documents that it isn't particularly beneficial for insomnia and depression.

Worst of all, there are many distressing side effects from the use of (prolonged) tryptophan supplements, such as cancer promotion. I wrote an article on this, "Tryptophan Side Effects: L-Tryptophan Is Far From Harmless", which you can access at http://www.supplements-and-health.com/tryptophan-side-effects.html

Replied by Quercus
(Socals)
05/13/2014

When one reads about studies concerning either the good or bad about a supplement, it would be wise to ascertain who paid for those studies. Also, it is a good idea to look at the number of participants. While there can be a lot good info gleemed off the internet, there are also a lot of information that is untrue, out of context or without full disclosure. Some websites promote the image of being impartial, when they are not.

As with any prescription anti-depressant, it would be wise when taking a new supplement to start out slowly.

Replied by Denise
(Us)
12/17/2018
50 posts

I can't agree with this more, especially about the treating symptoms instead of looking at possible causes. For the first time in my 66 years, I am looking at my whole food intake, and exercise habits. I've changed a lot already, and honestly, for me it isn't about living longer, it's just about feeling as good as possible, and doing the things I love for as long as I am here.

I am starting to be hooked on healthy, food choices, and if I feel I am not getting enough of some nutrient, I am supplementing with vitamins and minerals. I don't expect to cure every single issue I have, but many of those issues are improving and that is enough for me to stick with this. Love EC, and the people here that share what they've tried, and what they've been successful with. I know we all are unique so I also never expect something to work for me, or at least not at the same dose etc.

5-HTP Tips

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Posted by Patricia (Gainesville, FL) on 06/16/2009

My daughter take 5HTP but she takes P-5-P along with it. Does anyone have any info on the P-5-P. After reading some of the side effects some people have had I am a little afraid to take it. I have just started on Tumeric. Had to quit Bill's spray and ACV as it made my throat so sore my voice dropped a few levels. Any one else had this happen?

Replied by Chicagorock
(Chicago, Il)
03/06/2011
★★★★★

Hi patricia,

you might try neuroassist. it's a mix of htp-5 with other co-factors that you need in balance. they say that htp-5 alone with put your other neurotransmitters out of whack, here is their web site www.neuroassist.com/. my therapist said that her clients are doing much better with neuroassist. hope you feel better, patricia, good luck.

5-HTP vs L-Tyrptophan

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Posted by Robin (Rural, VA) on 11/15/2008

Somebody help me clear up something. I came across some L-Tryotophan 500 mg at a drug store, in a sale bin, which I understand is no longer being sold. Doing a little research, this is a typical size dosage. I had been planning on buying some 5Htp anyway. Which is generally sold in 100 mg. I keep reading that L-Tryptophan and 5Htp are the same thing. Why would there be such a vast difference in the amount of the capsules? And if they are not the same thing, someone please explain the difference.

I had also read that if you are using 5Htp to help you sleep, you have to take a lot (maybe 5) of capsules. This is not very cost effective, as a bottle of 60 would cost you about $20. I had sleep in mind when I bought the L-Tryptophan, and took one capsule. I slept like a baby. And believe me that is rare for me.

Replied by Peggy
(Loveland, Co)
07/15/2010
★★★★★

My understanding is that 5-HTP is the intermediate biochemical in the body between tryptophan and serotonin. Tryptophan is in some foods like turkey and Brazil nuts, and our bodies turn it into 5-HTP, which is then turned into serotonin. L-tryptophan was the supplement version of tryptophan, but apparently had some unpleasant side effects so it was pulled. www.5-HTP.org has some good info about it. I have had good luck with 100 mg of 5-HTP on an empty stomach about an hour before bedtime. I sleep more restfully and am happier when I wake up. I understand it's good to start with 50 mg and see if that works, and add more if needed. If I run out and don't get more for a few days, I start having more insomnia and sadness within a few days. Also, it took a few days to take effect, but has been well worth it and no side effects.

Alcohol Addiction

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Posted by Jake (Middletown, New York) on 05/02/2009
 ★★★★★

Help to stop drinking: I have had difficulty with alcohol consumption for years, did not drink every day but when I did I did to excess.Then a friend sugessted 5-HTP which has greatly reduced my desire to drink and when I do I have a few and just get that feel that I dont want any more.I take 200mg 5-HTP at bedtime and 100mg in morning both on empty stomach. I now sleep great feel, calm and just drink socially now like those without drinking issues.

Anxiety

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Posted by Gail (Branson, Missouri) on 01/20/2012
 ★★★★★

My husband got the 5-HTP from reading about it in Ray and Terry's info... I can get grouchy, so I took some to see the effect. I took 100mg in the morning and I forgot about it as I was busy that day... Then later in the day when I was doing school work with my kids and my son didn't want to focus and was acting up, which usually upsets me, I felt calm and I noticed it... It was nice... I guess you could say it took the edge off of my irritation?? I had no side effects other than vivid dreams but not bad dreams... I think it depends on your brain chemistry and particular problems.

I know a friend who had severe depression for years who recently cured it with ACV and some slight diet changes, so go figure. My husband tends toward anxiety and he likes what it does for him, but he does not take it every day, more like every other. We have learned over the years often with anxiety/depression you need magnesium and homeopathic meds are often good for this or epsom salt baths.

Anxiety
Posted by Harrier (Long Beach, CA) on 11/27/2005
 ★★★★★

I was recently diagnosed as having some mild anxiety was was given Zoloft. However the side effects were too great for me to continue. I have been trying L- Glutamine and 5 HTP for about a month and appear to find a leveling off or those problems. For me although it seems to have helped, the jury is still out and I'm not sure if this is helping or its me in the fact I only recently recognized it was a problem. I have read that 90% of the people who try natural alternatives for depression / anxiety return to prescriptions. That is very high. I only wish I recognized my problem earlier. The only people I see pushing the natural alternatives are people who have things to gain. There have been no real blind study on 5 HTP. I do not crave junk food or caffeine nearly as much. If that is a symptom of improvement, perhaps I'm getting there.

Anxiety, Depression

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Posted by Susanne (Indianapolis, In) on 11/30/2007
 ★★★★★

I began taking 5-HTP for depression and anxiety and sleeplessness during a very emotionally stressful breakup. I have Not had an anxity attack since 3-07 which I had suffered from off and on for several years. I sleep so much better. I am able to think clearer and stay focused and concentrate so much better as well as improved my memory. I am thankful for this. My dr. wanted to put me on Wellbutrine. NO Thank U!


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